Having postponed their event from March 15 to May 31st, and facing the reality to have to completely cancel the event for this year, the organizers of the annual Women’s Day Show in Cornwall, Ontario came up with a solution that still allows the event to take place, while completely adhering to the strict social distancing measures–on a virtual platform.

By visiting a website that will host an interactive map of the virtual trade show, visitors will be able to click on each “booth” and be led to a live stream where the vendors will show their products and services, and answer questions.  Visitors will also be able to purchase items, participate in contests and even order from local eateries right from within the map, all from the comfort of their own home.

“We are thrilled to have come up with a solution that can help our local business community,” said Mai-Liis Renaud, one of the main two organizers.  “We just want to help in what is a very difficult time for many, and this is the perfect way to do it.  We’ve invited all the vendors who had registered for the physical show to partake in this even, and we’re opening it up to anybody who owns a business and wants to participate.”

“As far as I know, this is the first event of its kind in the area,” said Julia Lucio.  “As organizers, we always try to find innovative ways to adapt to whatever curve ball is thrown our way.  It’s not the first time that we’ve had to adjust our business model, and I’m sure it won’t be the last.  As they say, the show must go on!” 

The pair owns a local news outlet that is community orientated and has always been supportive of small business owners and non-profit organizations in the area.  The Seeker has donated well over $75,000 in monetary donations and in kind services over its 10 years in business.  “It’s in our mission statement to support our peers,” continued Lucio.  “This is why we’re hosting the online event for free. There is absolutely no cost!  The only criteria vendors need to meet is to be local to the SD&G area and be with a company who is not already represented as we limit the booth to one vendor per company.”

The event takes place Sunday May 31st from 12pm to 2pm.  You can see who is already registered by visiting https://theseeker.ca/womens-day-show.  Registration is also accessible from that link.

“Please support our local small businesses by planning to attend the event on Sunday, May 31st,” Renaud ended.  “We’re all in this together!”